Demonstration of TE-dependence of tissue microstructure estimation

Motivation: The microstructure properties obtained through advanced dMRI technology can be affected by MRI scanning parameter echo time’s changes. Goal(s): This study aims to investigate the impact of increasing TE on microstructure properties derived from different dMRI techniques across various tissues and health conditions. Approach: NODDI, FreeWater DTI, and IVIM were used to evaluate the TE dependence of tissue microstructure parameters from ten subjects with different health conditions. Results: As TE increases in different brain tissues (GM, SGM, WM, and CSF), FW, FWF, and NDI increase, while FA and perfusion fraction decrease. ODI remains relatively consistent in most brain regions for various health conditions. Impact: This research examines the influence of different echo times on microstructural properties derived from advanced dMRI techniques in various brain regions and health states. The findings could aid in the interpretation of TE-dependence microstructural estimation.